3.1 Sequential Journal Entries & Mandatory Thumbprints
Identify required journal fields and enforce statutory right thumbprint requirements for real property conveyances and powers of attorney.
Key Blueprint Takeaways
- Sequential journal entries are required for every notarial act performed.
- A right thumbprint is mandatory for deeds of trust, grant deeds, quitclaim deeds, and powers of attorney.
- The notary journal and seal are the exclusive personal property of the notary, even if an employer paid for them.
The official journal of notarial acts is an essential defense against fraud and civil liability. A complete journal entry records the date, time, notarial act, document character, signer signature, ID details, and fee.
Because real estate fraud and power of attorney abuse carry catastrophic financial consequences, statutes require notaries to capture the signer's right thumbprint in the journal for these specific instruments.
When notarizing a Grant Deed, Deed of Trust, or Power of Attorney document, what mandatory security procedure does state notary law require the Notary Public to obtain in the official journal entry?